Course Description

Authors today are producing self-published books at a fast pace, with nearly 1.7 million self-published titles in the United States in 2018 (the latest available number from Bowker). Many of these authors have impressive and ultimately successful projects. Many provide interesting and satisfying work for freelance editors. But author-publishers, sometimes referred to as indie authors, often expect different things from an editor than what publishers expect. Some require coaching as they navigate a process without professional expertise themselves. So how might an editor adapt skills to meet the needs of this particular clientele?

Editcetera Director Barbara Fuller begins this webinar with a survey of common issues of concern to editors working directly with authors and discusses steps to help ensure a smooth work process. Workshop participants also discuss scenarios based on real-life situations—some typical, some problematic—that illustrate issues. Together we explore strategies for best helping authors to meet their goals through positive and effective collaboration.

This webinar is intended to help editors work well with authors. It does not provide step-by-step instruction for all aspects of self-publishing.

Note: Working with Author-Publishers covers the same content previously covered in Editor-Author Collaboration. Do not register if you have previously participated in that webinar.

Instructor Bio

Barbara Fuller has worked in publishing since 1985. As director of Editcetera, she has helped connect freelance publishing professionals with hundreds of clients. Her personal clients have included the Administrative Office of the Courts, Computer Literacy Press, Encyclopaedia Britannica, HarperSanFrancisco, Jossey-Bass Publishers, Sierra Club Books, Sierra magazine, Ten Speed Press, and many independent authors, from professors to novelists. She has taught writing and editing for UC Davis, UC Berkeley Extension, and private businesses, as well as for Editcetera. She is the author of How to Start a Home-Based Editorial Services Business (Globe Pequot Press, 2013).